How To Fix WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS040 - Non-modifiable rows are caused by locked nodes

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS - Message for Errors in Material Screens

• Message number: 040

• Message text: Non-modifiable rows are caused by locked nodes

What causes this issue?

In the "Assignment to Article Hierarchy" maintenance view, some of the
nodes listed may be locked. To avoid inconsistencies, the rows concerned
are locked, which means that the main assignment cannot be edited.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

If you want to edit one of these locked nodes, you can use transaction S
M12 to view the lock entries. In the Table Name field, enter
WRF_MATGRP_STRUC. Here, you can find out who is locking the node and can
contact that person. Do not delete the lock entry manually as this could
cause inconsistencies.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS040 - Non-modifiable rows are caused by locked nodes ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS040 Non-modifiable rows are caused by locked nodes
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when you try to modify or update article data in SAP (typically in Retail or Merchandise Management modules), but the system detects that certain nodes (data records or structures related to the article) are currently locked by another user or process. Because these nodes are locked, the system prevents changes to avoid data inconsistencies or conflicts.
  Locks in SAP are used to ensure data integrity by preventing simultaneous conflicting updates. When a node is locked, it means another user or background job is currently editing or processing that data.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Identify the Lock Owner:
  
  Use transaction SM12 (Lock Entries) to check which user or process holds the lock on the relevant nodes.
  Filter by the object or key related to the article or data you are trying to modify.
  
  
  
  Wait or Communicate:
  
  If the lock is held by another user, coordinate with them to finish their work and release the lock.
  If the lock is held by a background job or process, wait until it completes.
  
  
  
  Manually Remove the Lock (with caution):
  
  If the lock is stale (e.g., caused by a crashed session or aborted process), and you have authorization, you can delete the lock entry in SM12.
  Warning: Deleting locks manually can cause data inconsistencies if done improperly. Always ensure no active process is using the locked data.
  
  
  
  Check for Long-Running Jobs or Batch Processes:
  
  Sometimes batch jobs or background processes lock nodes for extended periods.
  Review and optimize these jobs if they cause frequent locking issues.
  
  
  
  Review Custom Code or Enhancements:
  
  If this error occurs frequently or unexpectedly, check if any custom developments or user exits are causing locks to be held longer than necessary.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Lock Objects: SAP uses lock objects to lock database entries. Understanding which lock object is involved can help diagnose the issue.
  Transaction SM12: Primary tool to monitor and manage locks.
  Transaction SM13: Check update requests that might be holding locks.
  SAP Notes: Search SAP Support Portal for notes related to WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS040 or locking issues in the Retail module.
  Best Practices: Always ensure proper lock handling in custom code and avoid long transactions that hold locks unnecessarily.
  
  
  Summary:
  The error WRF_ARTICLE_SCREENS040 Non-modifiable rows are caused by locked nodes means the article data you want to change is currently locked by another user or process. To resolve it, identify and release the lock via SM12, coordinate with the lock owner, or wait for the process to finish. Avoid forceful lock deletion unless you are sure the lock is stale.
  
  If you provide more context (e.g., module, transaction, or scenario), I can help with more specific guidance.